As a first-generation Latin-American student with a fervent passion for creativity, entrepreneurship, and community, my journey has been shaped by the pursuit of meaningful connections, personal growth, and a desire to make a positive impact on the world. Growing up in a household where hard work, resilience, and determination were instilled as core values, I have always strived to seize opportunities and pursue my dreams with unwavering dedication. My cultural background has served as a source of strength and inspiration, fueling my aspirations to break barriers and defy expectations in pursuit of a brighter future. From a young age, I discovered my love for design and the transformative power it holds in shaping our surroundings and experiences. This led me to embark on a journey to study interior design, where I found a perfect blend of my creative instincts and passion for making spaces come to life. Through my education and hands-on experiences, I have honed my skills in conceptualization, spatial planning, and aesthetic refinement, laying the groundwork for a fulfilling career in the field. Simultaneously, I have embraced the entrepreneurial spirit within me, recognizing the potential to leverage my talents and passions to create opportunities for myself and others. Inspired by my love for beauty and aesthetics, I recently embarked on a new venture by starting a lash and brow at-home business. This endeavor allows me to merge my artistic flair with my entrepreneurial drive, offering personalized beauty services that empower clients to feel confident and beautiful in their own skin. Beyond my professional endeavors, I am deeply passionate about giving back to my community and uplifting others. As a volleyball player for the past nine years, I have experienced firsthand the power of teamwork, perseverance, and camaraderie on and off the court. Through coaching and mentoring aspiring athletes, I aim to instill confidence, discipline, and a sense of belonging in the next generation of players, fostering a culture of empowerment and inclusivity within the sports community. Looking ahead, I am committed to leveraging my unique background, skills, and experiences to drive positive change in the world. As a first-generation Latin-American student, I am acutely aware of the barriers and disparities that exist within our society, particularly in access to education, opportunities, and resources. Therefore, I am driven to advocate for equity, diversity, and inclusion in all aspects of my work, striving to create spaces and experiences that reflect the rich tapestry of our multicultural world. In conclusion, my journey as a first-generation Latin-American student, interior design enthusiast, entrepreneur, and volleyball player has shaped my values, aspirations, and commitment to making a difference in the world. Through my future career endeavors in interior design and entrepreneurship, I aim to create spaces that inspire, businesses that empower, and communities that thrive. With passion, purpose, and perseverance as my guiding principles, I am confident in my ability to leave a lasting and meaningful impact on the world around me.

Creating a legacy is a profound aspiration that requires vision, dedication, and a commitment to making a lasting impact. As I navigate my journey through various ventures, including pursuing a degree in interior design, establishing a lash and brow at-home business, and aspiring to open my own tattoo shop, I am driven by the desire to leave behind a legacy of creativity, innovation, and empowerment. My path towards creating a legacy begins with my education in interior design. By immersing myself in the principles of design, exploring innovative techniques, and honing my creative skills, I am laying the foundation for a career that not only fulfills my passion but also allows me to make a meaningful contribution to the built environment. Through my studies, I am learning how to transform spaces into functional, aesthetically pleasing environments while prioritizing sustainability and the well-being of occupants. Simultaneously, I have embarked on the journey of entrepreneurship by starting a lash and brow at-home business. This endeavor allows me to showcase my artistic talents while providing personalized beauty services to clients in the comfort of their own homes. By offering high-quality treatments and exceptional customer service, I strive to build a reputation for excellence and professionalism in the beauty industry. Through my business, I aim to empower individuals to embrace their natural beauty and feel confident in their own skin. Looking ahead, my ultimate vision is to establish my own tattoo shop, where I can merge my passion for art with my entrepreneurial spirit. Drawing inspiration from my background in interior design, I envision creating a unique space that reflects my artistic vision and celebrates the diverse artistry of tattooing. My shop will not only serve as a hub for creativity and self-expression but also as a welcoming community space where clients can feel inspired, supported, and empowered. In all of my endeavors, I strive to shine my light by embodying authenticity, integrity, and passion. Whether I am designing interiors, beautifying clients, or creating works of art, I approach each endeavor with a sense of purpose and enthusiasm. I believe in the power of creativity to uplift, inspire, and connect people from all walks of life. Through my work, I seek to ignite a spark of joy, curiosity, and self-discovery in others, encouraging them to embrace their unique talents and pursue their dreams with confidence and determination. As I continue to pursue my passions and build towards my vision of the future, I am committed to leaving behind a legacy that reflects my values, beliefs, and aspirations. Whether through my contributions to the design industry, my entrepreneurial ventures, or my creative endeavors, I aim to leave a positive impact on the world and inspire others to follow their own paths towards greatness. By staying true to myself, embracing new challenges, and fostering meaningful connections along the way, I am confident that I can create a legacy that will endure for generations to come.

My name is Isabela Schirado, and I am currently a senior at Castro Valley High School in California, where I have immersed myself in a variety of interests and activities that have shaped my identity and aspirations. At the core of my passions lies a deep appreciation for creativity and design, particularly within the realm of interior design and art. Throughout my high school years, I have eagerly pursued opportunities to expand my knowledge and skills in these areas. I have taken art classes, exploring various mediums and techniques to express my creativity and refine my artistic abilities. Whether it's painting or experimenting with abstract forms, I find solace and joy in the process of bringing ideas to life on canvas. In addition to my artistic pursuits, I also play volleyball and beach volleyball. I have been a member and captain of the varsity volleyball team and have been playing for 9 years, where I have learned the values of teamwork, perseverance, and sportsmanship. Volleyball not only serves as a physical outlet for me but also fosters a sense of camaraderie and friendship among teammates, creating memories that will last a lifetime. Beyond academics and athletics, I am deeply committed to giving back to my community through various extracurricular activities and volunteer work. I have volunteered at local shelters and community centers, assisting with meal preparation, and providing support to individuals in need. These experiences have instilled in me a sense of empathy, compassion, and responsibility to make a positive impact on the lives of others. Looking ahead to post-high school plans, I am eager to pursue a career in interior design, fueled by my passion for creating innovative and sustainable spaces that inspire and enrich the lives of others. I am currently exploring different universities with reputable interior design programs, where I hope to further develop my skills and knowledge in this field such as University of Oregon, University of San Francisco and Sacramento State University In addition to my academic and career aspirations, I have always harbored a desire to make a meaningful difference in the world through philanthropy and service. If given the opportunity to start my own charity, my mission would be to empower underserved communities through art and design education. The charity would serve individuals of all ages, particularly those from disadvantaged backgrounds who lack access to quality art education and resources. Volunteers would play a crucial role in delivering a range of services, including art workshops, mentorship programs, and community beautification projects. Volunteers would share their expertise and passion for art and design, inspiring and empowering participants to explore their creativity, develop valuable skills, and unlock their full potential. By providing access to art and design education, my charity would not only enrich the lives of individuals but also foster community pride, resilience, and cultural enrichment. Through the transformative power of art and design, we would strive to create a more equitable and inclusive society where everyone has the opportunity to thrive and succeed.

Community engagement has played a transformative role in shaping my life, instilling in me a deep sense of purpose, empathy, and responsibility towards others. Through volunteering and service activities within my community, I have experienced firsthand the profound impact that small acts of kindness and collective efforts can have on individuals and society as a whole. One of the most significant ways that giving back within my community has shaped my life is by fostering a sense of empathy and understanding towards diverse perspectives and lived experiences. Engaging with individuals from different backgrounds and life circumstances has broadened my worldview and challenged my assumptions. Whether it was serving meals at a local shelter or participating in environmental clean-up initiatives, each experience has deepened my appreciation for the inherent dignity and resilience of every individual. Moreover, community engagement has provided me with invaluable opportunities for personal growth and skill development. Through volunteering, I have honed essential skills such as communication, teamwork, problem-solving, and leadership. These experiences have not only enriched my life but also equipped me with the tools necessary to navigate challenges and make meaningful contributions in both my academic and professional endeavors. It has taught me that positive change begins at the grassroots level and requires active participation. By volunteering my time and resources to address pressing social, environmental, and economic issues, I have become more attuned to the needs of my community and empowered to advocate for positive change. Looking ahead, my college educational goals are deeply intertwined with my commitment to community engagement. As I pursue my studies, I aspire to cultivate a well-rounded education that not only encompasses academic excellence but also fosters a sense of social responsibility and ethical leadership. One of my primary educational goals is to major in Interior Design/ Architecture to gain expertise in local communities such as hospitals. I am passionate about Interior Design/ Architecture because it gives back to people and creates a better and more creative community to live in and near, and I believe that a thorough understanding of this field will enable me to make meaningful contributions to society. I plan to complement my major with coursework in Interior Design/ Architecture to broaden my knowledge base. In addition to academic pursuits, I am committed to actively engaging with my college community through extracurricular activities, internships, and volunteer opportunities. I intend to continue my involvement in service initiatives that align with my interests and values, such as helping with community services like helping in homeless shelters and picking up trash or helping to raise money for my volleyball program. By integrating classroom learning with hands-on experiences, I hope to apply theoretical knowledge to real-world challenges and develop practical skills that will prepare me for a successful career in Interior Design/ Architecture. Moreover, I am eager to take advantage of research opportunities, mentorship programs, and networking events to further expand my horizons and pursue my academic and professional goals. I am committed to maximizing my college experience and making a positive impact on campus and beyond. In conclusion, community engagement has been instrumental in shaping my life and guiding my educational goals. By giving back within my community, I have cultivated empathy, developed essential skills, and embraced social responsibility. As I embark on my college journey, I am excited to pursue my academic interests, engage with my peers and mentors, and continue making meaningful contributions to society. Through a combination of academic excellence, community engagement, and ethical leadership, I am confident that I will not only achieve my educational goals but also contribute to positive change in the world.

Interior design is more than just arranging furniture and selecting color palettes; it's a form of storytelling that shapes the way we experience the spaces we inhabit. My passion for design stems from a deep appreciation for the transformative power it holds. From the subtle nuances of lighting to the harmonious blend of textures and materials, every element in a space has the potential to evoke emotions, stimulate creativity, and enhance well-being. One of the primary reasons I am drawn to interior design is its ability to merge functionality with aesthetics. It offers a unique opportunity to create environments that not only serve practical purposes but also inspire and uplift individuals. Whether it's designing a cozy living room where families gather to unwind or a collaborative workspace that fosters creativity and productivity, I am fascinated by the endless possibilities to shape the way people interact with their surroundings. Moreover, interior design allows me to indulge my passion for creativity and self-expression. It provides a platform to experiment with various styles, textures, and colors, enabling me to unleash my imagination and bring concepts to life. The process of conceptualizing a design, refining it through sketches and renderings, and finally seeing it realized in physical form is immensely fulfilling. It's a journey fueled by curiosity, innovation, and the desire to push boundaries and challenge conventions. Beyond personal fulfillment, I am driven by a desire to make a meaningful impact on the field of interior design. In a world facing complex challenges such as climate change, urbanization, and social inequality, I believe that designers have a responsibility to advocate for sustainable and socially conscious practices. I aspire to be a catalyst for positive change within the industry by integrating principles of sustainability, inclusivity, and accessibility into my work. One of the impacts I hope to make in the field of interior design is to promote environmental stewardship and conscious consumption. By prioritizing eco-friendly materials, implementing energy-efficient design strategies, and advocating for sustainable practices, I aim to minimize the environmental footprint of my projects and inspire others to adopt more responsible design practices. Whether it's sourcing materials from local artisans, repurposing vintage furniture, or incorporating biophilic design principles to reconnect people with nature, I believe that small changes can have a ripple effect and contribute to a more sustainable future. Furthermore, I am passionate about using design as a tool for social change and inclusivity. In a diverse and multicultural society, it's essential to create spaces that celebrate cultural diversity, promote inclusivity, and foster a sense of belonging for all individuals. Whether it's designing accessible spaces for people with disabilities, incorporating universal design principles to accommodate varying needs and abilities, or advocating for gender-neutral restrooms to promote inclusivity, I believe that design has the power to break down barriers and create more equitable environments for everyone. In conclusion, my passion for interior design stems from its ability to blend creativity, functionality, and purpose in a way that positively impacts people's lives. By advocating for sustainable practices, promoting inclusivity, and embracing innovation, I hope to make a lasting impact on the field of interior design and contribute to creating spaces that are not only beautiful but also meaningful, inclusive, and sustainable.

As an aspiring interior designer, my passion lies in the intersection of creativity and functionality within the built environment. I am captivated by the power of design to transform spaces, evoke emotions, and enhance the quality of life for individuals. However, in pursuing this field, I am acutely aware of the environmental impacts associated with traditional design practices. Therefore, my focus is not only on creating aesthetically pleasing interiors but also on prioritizing sustainability as a fundamental principle in my work. Sustainability in interior design encompasses various aspects, including material selection, energy efficiency, waste reduction, and promoting healthy indoor environments. To integrate sustainability into my practice, I plan to adopt a multifaceted approach that encompasses both design principles and ethical considerations. Firstly, material selection plays a pivotal role in sustainable interior design. I aim to prioritize materials that are renewable, recyclable, and locally sourced whenever possible. This involves researching eco-friendly alternatives to conventional materials, such as reclaimed wood, recycled glass, and low-VOC paints. By choosing materials with minimal environmental impact, I can reduce the carbon footprint of my projects and contribute to the preservation of natural resources. Furthermore, I recognize the importance of designing spaces that promote energy efficiency and minimize waste. Incorporating passive design strategies, such as maximizing natural light and ventilation, can reduce the reliance on artificial lighting and HVAC systems, thus lowering energy consumption. Additionally, I intend to implement strategies for waste management, such as recycling and upcycling furniture and fixtures, to divert materials from landfills and prolong their lifecycle. In addition to environmental considerations, sustainable interior design also encompasses promoting human health and well-being. I plan to prioritize creating spaces that prioritize occupant comfort, productivity, and overall wellness. This involves optimizing indoor air quality through proper ventilation systems and selecting non-toxic materials to minimize exposure to harmful chemicals. By fostering healthy indoor environments, I aim to enhance the quality of life for occupants while minimizing the environmental impact of my designs. In conclusion, sustainability is a core value that will guide my journey as an interior designer. By prioritizing sustainable practices in material selection, energy efficiency, waste reduction, and occupant health, I aim to create spaces that are not only visually appealing but also environmentally responsible and socially conscious. Through continuous learning, innovation, and collaboration with like-minded professionals, I am committed to contributing to a more sustainable future for the design industry and beyond.

In my academic journey, the threads of challenge and triumph are the same, forming a narrative of resilience and transformation within myself and in my life. My journey began with an unexpected adversary: dyslexia, a subtle but intimidating force that presented itself as a seemingly overwhelming obstacle. My self-esteem started to erode like the eraser shavings on my desk. Yet, in confronting this challenge, I discovered not only the strength within myself but also the power to redefine success on my terms. Back in the earlier days, reading was like trying to decipher a secret code. I'd stare at a page, feeling like I was wrestling with an unruly bunch of letters. It was frustrating, to say the least. In school, it got real for me. I dreaded reading and I would scan over the sea of words that just stopped in my eyes and would go no further. My grades took a nosedive, and my confidence was nonexistent, leaving me with a serious case of self-doubt. Everything started to become stressful and I found myself struggling to keep up. I had to do something about it; My journey toward transformation began with a humble acknowledgment of my condition. Instead of viewing dyslexia as a limitation, I chose to see it as a unique lens through which I could perceive the world. I teamed up with teachers, family, and advocates to figure out a game plan and found cool visual tricks and alternative materials that made the words calm down a bit and helped me be more sure of myself. Audiobooks became my allies, providing a bridge between the written word and my comprehension. Through trial and error, I discovered the techniques that unlocked the secrets of language, turning the once chaotic time into a routine. I've learned that it is okay to be a little behind and take my time to do things right. With this new mindset, I have overcome way more than I thought I was capable of. I challenge myself to get better at anything I put my mind to and I have done just that but I'm not done yet. I learned that success is not confined to the parameters set by others; rather, it is a personal journey defined by resilience, adaptability, and the courage to redefine one's narrative. In my high school experience with dyslexia, I have overcome a lot more than I believed I was capable of. I've taken hard classes such as Honors classes and AP classes; I have had my fair share of ups and downs in these classes but I never took them for college credit or because they looked good for college, I took the harder classes every year to push and challenge myself to become better. Standardized tests, once an ominous hurdle, became a platform to showcase my unique approach to problem-solving. As my grades ascended, so did my belief in my abilities. I don't wanna be restricted or defined as a girl with a learning disability but as a girl who pushes herself and isn't afraid of falling. In conquering dyslexia, I unearthed a profound truth: obstacles are not roadblocks but opportunities for self-discovery and growth. As I look towards the future, I carry with me the lessons learned from this transformative experience, confident that the challenges I encounter will serve as an aid towards my continued success. Having dyslexia remains a part of my story, it has equipped me with the skills to confront challenges, the empathy to understand diverse perspectives, and the determination to turn setbacks into stepping stones. Resilience continues to occur, echoing the transformative power of embracing obstacles and turning them into opportunities. I see this as my start to success and this opportunity will open more chances for me to challenge myself and overcome more obstacles in my life.